It’s no secret that when we start our day with some physical activity, we tend to feel better throughout the day. The freshness of the morning air, the movement of our bodies and the quiet time to ourselves contributes to setting a positive tone for the day. Things like going for a walk, doing yoga or any form of exercise simply boosts our mood. And so does what we eat. It plays a big role in how we feel. When we eat nutritious foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins, we tend to feel more focused and energised. On the other hand, indulging in unhealthy foods often leaves us feeling sluggish and tired.
Eating better isn’t just about looking good, it’s about feeling good, both physically and mentally. The connection between regular exercise, healthy eating and mental wellbeing is clear. When we take care of our bodies through regular movement and nutritious food, we not only improve our physical health but also boost our mental health. This is because exercise releases endorphins or feel-good hormones and a balanced diet helps keep our brain functioning at its best. Together, these habits create a positive feedback loop that makes us feel better inside and out.
Join us as we explore further on how regular exercise and healthy eating positively impacts our mental wellbeing.
Imagine stepping out for a walk early in the morning. The air is fresh, you get to hear the birds chirping and feel the cool breeze on your face. You simply can’t help but feel good. The simple act of walking in nature, moving your body and taking in the surroundings makes you feel refreshed and recharged.
Exercise indeed has a powerful impact on our mood. When we engage in physical activity, our bodies release endorphins or feel-good hormones. These natural chemicals help reduce feelings of stress and anxiety, leaving us feeling relaxed and positive. Whether it’s a walk in the park, a yoga session or a workout, physical activity helps clear our minds and improves our mental state.
Many of our Sundays look a little like this; gulping down a few glasses of fizzy drinks, having pizzas for lunch, a quick bite of chaat from the street vendor in the evenings and finally polishing off some burgers with ice cream. Our hearts may be full but nobody really feels great after consuming all that. It might taste delicious in the moment, but acidity and bloating are sure to follow.
What we eat doesn’t just affect our physical health; it directly impacts our brain function as well. A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and whole grains provides nutrients that help our brains stay sharp and focused. In fact, foods like nuts and leafy greens are known to improve memory and mood both. When we eat well, we feel physically better and are in a positive mood more often than usual. So, a healthy diet is actually key to feeling good mentally and emotionally.
The benefits of exercise on mental health are far too many. Regular exercise boosts mental wellbeing by releasing endorphins. These hormones help reduce stress, anxiety and improve mood.
Exercise helps manage stress by reducing levels of cortisol, the stress hormone.
A balanced diet provides nutrients that support brain function. Eating healthy can also reduce the risk of mental health issues like depression and anxiety in some people.
When we take care of our bodies, we feel stronger, more capable and confident. This can increase our self-esteem.
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